Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Primeira Liga match.
Vitória Guimarães have shown a powerful surge in the Conference League stage, proving that the club are ready to compete with the giants of the Portuguese league for a place in the top four. Against Nacional, who have recently climbed out of the relegation zone, Vitória Guimarães should find success— their attack confidently capitalises on opportunities.
Vitória Guimarães
Throughout December, Vitória Guimarães struggled only in their away match against an in-form Benfica (0:1). In their last 17 matches across all competitions, they have only failed to score twice. Against St. Gallen (4:1), Rio Ave (2:2), and Fiorentina (1:1), the team achieved a cumulative expected goals (xG) of 6.92, scoring seven goals from open play. Out of 13 home matches this campaign, Vitória Guimarães have claimed 10 victories.
Nacional
Nacional recently failed in their home encounter against Benfica (0:2), allowing an xGA of 1.47 and 16 shots. Without their injured winger Nigel Thomas, the coaching staff will be limited in their attacking potential, and their defence is particularly weak on the road—having suffered five consecutive away defeats with an aggregate score of 3:10. In the Primeira Liga, the underdogs have managed to garner only two points from seven away matches—a record only better than Estrela Praia’s one point.
Vitória Guimarães vs Nacional Prediction
A motivated Vitória Guimarães are unlikely to slip up against a team fighting for survival. Nacional are expected to concede at least two goals on foreign soil—they find it difficult to control games away from home.
